James Creighton Mitchell Jr.: 2022 candidate for Lake County Board District 1

Bio

Party: Republican

Office sought: Lake County Board District 1

City: Lake Villa

Age:

Occupation: Retired

Previous offices held: Lake County Board, Lake County Forest Preserve, Regional School Board, West Deerfield Township Trustee, Drainage District Commissioner, Mosquito Abatement Commissioner erve Commissioner, Regional School Board

Q&A

Why are you running for this office, whether for re-election or election for the first time? Is there a particular issue that motivates you?

I am disgusted with the Democratic leadership at all levels of government especially at the local level where I can make changes. I am a firm believer that one man can make a difference.

Policing, education reform, social issues, taxation and governmental consolidation.

If you are an incumbent, describe your main contributions. Tell us of any important initiatives you've led. If you are a challenger, what would you bring to the board and what would your priority be?

Stated above. Voted for JAWA. Brought competitive bidding for Mosquito Abatement District, made the formula for assessing drainage costs.

Describe your position regarding the balance between county spending and revenues as it exists today, then describe the chief threats you see looming and how the county should deal with them.

Too much reliance on fees that overstate the benefit. County gas tax, inflation employment. Need to spend more in the Sheriff's department.

How do you rate the county government on transparency and the public's access to records? If it's adequate, explain why. If you think improvements are needed, delineate them.

My experience has been with the County Clerk and it has been more than satisfactory. Do not know about other agencies.

What, if anything, should be done to improve automation and customer service in county offices? What steps should be taken to make that happen?

Not aware of any particular problems.